Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and distinct audible click, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a pronounced auditory cue when typing, which can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in providing maximum tactility, featuring a sharp tactile bump and a clean clack sound that appeals to typists seeking a smooth yet responsive feel. While the Box White V2 prioritizes a clicky experience that emphasizes sound, the POM T1 offers a more subdued, resonant typing experience that might be favored by those who prefer tactile feedback without saccharine noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) employ distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles and overall user experience. Starting with the top housing, the Box White V2 uses polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This crisp sound is particularly resonant, making it ideal for a heightened auditory experience. Moreover, polycarbonate's translucency enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for visually striking keyboard setups. In contrast, the POM T1 utilizes a POM top housing, which is also noted for creating a pleasing sound; however, the acoustic character is on the deeper side and relatively muted. This difference results in a contrasting experience when typing, as the Box White V2 excels in producing clear and vibrant sounds, while the POM T1 offers a more subdued auditory feedback.
When looking at the bottom housings, we find further distinctions between these two switches. The Kailh Box White V2 features a nylon bottom housing, traditionally associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, which effectively absorbs sound and produces a rounder output. This quality comes into play during the bottom-out phase of key presses, enhancing the tactile experience. Alternatively, the POM T1's bottom housing is made of POM as well, which, similar to nylon, creates a unique sound profile that also leans towards the deeper and more muted spectrum. The shared POM material between the top and bottom housings of the T1 suggests a cohesive sound experience that emphasizes muted acoustics across the board, allowing users to enjoy a more consistent auditory characteristic whether typing or bottoming out.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in these two switches leads to vastly different experiences. While both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock POM T1 offer unique sound profiles, they are influenced differently by the sonic properties of their respective housings. The Box White V2, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, delivers a sharp and resonant sound that stands out, especially in RGB-lit setups. In contrast, the POM T1 maintains a more uniform sound throughout, thanks to its POM housing on both ends, promoting a deeper and more muted auditory sensation. For those considering a blend of both, understanding that the mix of materials affects the tonal quality and feel of each switch can help users select switches that suit their typographic preferences while achieving a balance in sound and feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force, but it has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that, while the Box White V2 is easier to press and more forgiving for long-term use, the POM T1 requires more force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who favor a firmer push. Consequently, if you’re looking for a lighter switch that promotes longer typing sessions, the Box White V2 is the better choice, whereas the POM T1 would be better suited for those who appreciate a heavier switch feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences in typing feel. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the POM T1 offers a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper experience. This difference in travel distance means that users who prefer a quicker response time may gravitate toward the Kailh Box White V2 for its shorter actuation, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel may find the Durock POM T1 more satisfying due to its longer travel. Thus, depending on whether one values speed or depth, the choice between these two switches can significantly impact typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is best known for its crisp tactile feedback and loud click, which makes it an audibly engaging option for typists who enjoy a pronounced auditory experience. This switch amplifies each keystroke with a sharp and clear click sound, creating a lively typing atmosphere that many users appreciate, especially in gaming or typing scenarios where auditory cues are beneficial. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a more resonant and slightly higher-pitched sound profile, delivering a clean clack that is immersive yet not overwhelming. Its neutral characteristics make it adaptable to various settings, making it suitable for both casual typing and professional environments. Despite their inherent differences, both switches provide robust auditory feedback, aligning closely in terms of their ability to enhance the typing experience through sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides clear tactile feedback that typists can rely on, emphasizing a distinct actuation point with each keystroke. However, the specific qualities of the feel for this switch are not explicitly defined here. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in its tactile feedback with sharp, accented bumps that deliver a strong yet pleasing sensation with every keypress. This invigorating tactile experience combines moderate to firm actuation force with snappy responsiveness, making it a delight for users who seek a pronounced tactile session without excessive strain. While the Kailh Box White V2 imparts a dynamic typing feel, the POM T1 enhances it further with a more pronounced tactile character.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box White V2 and Durock POM T1 switches offer engaging tactile and auditory experiences, they do so in different ways. The Box White V2 is perfect for those who enjoy a loud, sharp click, while the POM T1 caters to users seeking a more balanced, resonant sound with its pronounced but clean feedback. Each switch will suit different preferences and environments, and users can explore these options based on their auditory and tactile priorities. If you're aiming for a specific dynamic in your typing experience, you'll find both options can provide unique results while still being pleasurable to use.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a lighter actuation force paired with an engaging auditory experience, the Box White V2 is ideal for you. Its crisp tactile feedback and distinct click sound make it particularly enjoyable for typists who thrive on auditory stimulation in their typing, fitting seamlessly in both casual and more playful keyboard setups. On the other hand, if you are in pursuit of a switch that offers a more pronounced tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the POM T1 is a suitable choice. With its sharp tactility and resonant sound profile, it strikes a balance that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelmingly aggressive, making it great for focused work sessions or creative typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize the engaging clickiness and light feel of the Kailh Box White V2 or the invigorating tactility and solid feedback of the Durock POM T1.
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